Eiram Santiago-Hernandez, a 26-year-old male of Hispanic ethnicity, tragically died on April 9, 2020, in New Castle, Pennsylvania. He was shot at the Oak Leaf Gardens Housing Complex shortly before 8 p.m. Santiago-Hernandez was in a vehicle driven by family and friends when he was shot, and the vehicle was speeding toward UPMC Jameson Hospital when police arrived. Despite their efforts to get him medical attention quickly, he was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Following the incident, New Castle police charged Juan Aviles Suarez with homicide on April 12, 2020. Suarez was later arrested with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals in Pittsburgh and taken into custody at the New Castle Police Department. He was processed and arraigned before being sent to the Lawrence County Jail.
The investigation into Santiago-Hernandez's death revealed that Suarez was the primary suspect in the shooting. The New Castle Police Department's Criminal Investigative Unit worked diligently to gather evidence and build a case against Suarez, leading to his arrest and charges.
The case brought significant attention to the community, as residents and authorities sought justice for Santiago-Hernandez. The efforts of law enforcement and the cooperation of the public were crucial in bringing the suspect to justice and providing some closure to the victim's family and friends.
Santiago-Hernandez is remembered by his loved ones, including his wife, Eranchaly, and his parents, Alfonso Santiago and Maria A. Hernandez. His unexpected death left a void in the lives of those who knew him, and his memory continues to be honored by his family and friends.